Rangers International defeated MC Alger 2-0 in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Trybal News reports.
The Nigerian champions were reduced to 10 men in the 12th minute when goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off after rushing off his line to intercept a long pass from Ferhat to Naidji but failing to reach the ball.
Rangers responded by bringing on goalkeeper Lateef Ishola for forward Waheed Adebayo. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the hosts created several chances through captain Chidiebere Nwobodo, Godwin Obaje and Kenneth Igboke.
Azeez Falolu was forced off following a challenge by Bangoura, while Chidozie Iwundu came close with a free-kick that narrowly missed the target.
Rangers technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu introduced James Emo and Mgbemena at half-time to strengthen his side’s attacking threat.
MC Alger were also reduced to 10 men when defender Benhaoua received a second yellow card for pulling back Nwobodo, allowing Rangers to take greater control of the contest.
The hosts thought they had scored through Emo, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Their breakthrough eventually came in the 73rd minute when Igwilo was brought down inside the penalty area and Igboke calmly converted the resulting spot-kick.
Emo sealed the victory in the 86th minute, finishing off a swift counter-attack to give Rangers a two-goal cushion ahead of the return leg.
Rangers will now look to protect their advantage in Algeria as they pursue qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage.
